I have a friend who is taking prescription Lopressor for high blood pressure. After discussing this with her Dr. and the pharmacist, she has a list of interactive drugs, but is concerned about foods and herbs that she might (or might not) take. Is anyone familiar with this medication that could offer advice? Thanks very much

-- Charleen in WNY (harperhill@eznet.net), January 15, 2002

Answers

you may find this information helpful.

no gingko, no high potassium foods, no st johns, no ginseng

http://elgarhi.tripod.com/potentially%20lethal%20drug% 20interaction.htm http://www.pccnaturalmarkets.com/health/Drug/Metoprolol.htm

this is the best one: http://home.caregroup.org/clinical/altmed/interactions/Drug_Classes/Be ta-adrenergic.htm http://www.pccnaturalmarkets.com/health/Drug/Metoprolol.htm http://www.healthfrontier.com/Alt_Med/interactions.cfm? id=433&location=Alt_Med http://www.ahealthyme.com/drugindex/l http://www.chfpatients.com/stew/herbs.htm http://www.gnc.com/health_notes/Drug/Metoprolol.htm http://health.wchsys.org/reax/CI0031.htm

Hawthorn-Often referred to as nature's "cardiotonic", hawthorn helps dilate coronary vessels thus improving flow of blood and oxygen to the heart. Hawthorn also strengthens the contraction of heart muscles and blood pressure. This herb may enhance action of cardiac glycosides such as Digoxin and Digitalis. Combining hawthorn with a heart or blood pressure medication can create a potentially harmful situation. Consult with your healthcare provider before using hawthorn in combination with any heart and/or blood pressure medications. Licorice-Licorice root can lower potassium levels in the body, which can be dangerous for an individual taking an antiarrhythmic drug like Digoxin. Combining licorice with a heart or blood pressure medication can create a potentially harmful situation. Consult with your healthcare provider before using licorice in combination with any heart/or blood pressure medication. The special form of licorice known as DGL (deglycyrrhizinated licorice) is a deliberately altered form of the herb that should not affect potassium levels.

-- Edna (surfwhuur@yahoo.com), July 31, 2002.